The wait times continue to go up as the government shutdown continues.

HOUSTON — Travelers flying out of Houston’s airports should plan for big delays at security checkpoints as the federal government shutdown impacts TSA staffing and operations nationwide.

Houston Airports says TSA wait times may exceed three hours at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and more than an hour at William P. Hobby Airport (HOU). The delays are expected to continue until further notice.

Editor’s note: Video above is from Saturday, Nov. 1

At Bush Airport, only TSA checkpoints at Terminals A and E are open. Airport officials say United Airlines passengers should check their luggage at Terminal C, then head over to Terminal E for security screening by walking or taking the airport subway. The Subway connects all five terminals, and once screened, travelers can take the Skyway to reach each gate.

At Hobby, officials say fewer screening lanes are open, which is contributing to longer lines there.

UPDATE: TSA wait times may exceed 3 hours.

We ask that passengers continue to arrive early and expect extended security wait times until the federal government shutdown is resolved. pic.twitter.com/rQomKZRSyk

— Bush Airport (@iah) November 2, 2025

Houston Airports Director of Aviation Jim Szczesniak calls this a “challenging time.”

“We sincerely thank our passengers for arriving early and for their patience and flexibility during this challenging time,” he said in a statement issued Sunday. “The federal government shutdown has impacted TSA staffing and operations nationwide, AND Houston Airports is doing everything possible to support our TSA partners and keep passengers moving safely and efficiently. “We ask that passengers continue to arrive early and expect extended security wait times until the federal government shutdown is resolved.”

Officials urge passengers to arrive several hours early for their flights and allow extra time to get through security until the shutdown ends.

Check current security wait times at Bush Airport | Check current security wait times at Hobby Airport

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